Xbox CEO Asha Sharma hints at radical new business models for the next console generation, including ad-supported consoles and cloud-streaming innovations, to combat rising component costs. Project Helix's future hinges on finding affordable solutions without sacrificing performance. Sharma also outlines a cautious approach to exclusives, tying their expansion to the platform's overall health.
In a surprising twist, Microsoft reverses plans to bring Gears of War: E-Day to PS5, opting for exclusivity to Xbox Series X/S and PC. This move signals a strategic shift under new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma, emphasizing the importance of exclusive content for platform growth. The decision comes after a brief, deleted Walmart PS5 placeholder page sparked speculation.
Xbox's new CEO, Asha Sharma, announces the removal of competitors' logos from future showcases, sparking debate on its impact in the console war with PlayStation. The move, while potentially pleasing hardcore fans, may not significantly benefit Xbox or the gaming community at large. With the Xbox Games Showcase on June 7 featuring cross-platform titles like Fable (also coming to PS5), the strategy's long-term effects are uncertain.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, now priced at $22.99/month after a reduction from $29.99, has seen an increase in acquisitions and improved retention, according to Xbox CEO Asha Sharma. This shift comes after a 50% price hike in October 2025 led to slowed growth and subscriber loss. The move underscores the platform's effort to offer a better value equation, especially for casual gamers.
Xbox boss Asha Sharma acknowledges the backlash over displaying PS5 logos during the Xbox Games Showcase, promising adjustments for future events. The move highlights Microsoft's multiplatform strategy, contrasting with Sony's exclusive approach. Sharma's response aims to appease hardcore Xbox fans demanding a focus on the platform's uniqueness.
Xbox Game Pass has seen improved subscriber activity following a recent price reduction, according to Xbox leader Asha Sharma. The cut, which lowered Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from £23 to £17 monthly, has increased acquisitions and retention. Sharma cautions, however, that resolving the platform's challenges will take more than one move.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma reports positive growth and improved retention following recent Game Pass price reductions. The adjustments, made after a challenging period post-last year's price hike, are seen as a first step towards restoring durable growth. Game Pass Ultimate now costs $22.99/month, down from $29.99, with PC subscriptions reduced to $13.99 from $16.49.
Microsoft launches Xbox Player Voice, a feedback platform where fans overwhelmingly demand a return to exclusive titles, citing the need for console differentiation. Despite Microsoft's multiplatform success with games like Forza Horizon 5, hardcore Xbox fans feel alienated. The move comes as new Xbox boss Asha Sharma re-evaluates the company's approach to exclusivity.
Xbox has officially rebranded as XBOX following a community poll where 65% of 19,000 voters preferred the uppercase title. Under new CEO Asha Sharma, the company is undergoing significant strategic changes, including the sunsetting of its Copilot initiative and the introduction of a new Game Pass tier tailored for Chinese gamers. These moves aim to address community and developer friction, signaling a faster, more community-centric approach for XBOX.
Xbox is developing "Project Saluki", a new Game Pass tier designed specifically for the burgeoning Chinese gaming market, adapting to its unique regulations and preferences. This strategic move aims to capitalize on China's gaming prowess, evident in hits like Black Myth Wukong. As Xbox seeks to rebound from sluggish sales, particularly with the Series X/S, this initiative under new CEO Asha Sharma could be a crucial turning point.
